Natural Environment

Come and explore Nature’s wonders in the Charters Towers region!

The landscape, a large inland dry reef area, is home to many hidden treasures, including pristine wilderness locations that deliver a very special experience for those who enjoy “the road less travelled”. From the incredible expanse of Lake Buchanan, an inland salt lake to the south, the rugged White Mountains National Park to the west, Fletcher Creek, Dalrymple National Park or Hidden Valley and Hervey Range to the north east and many hidden gems in between, you’ll find you’ll need to stay and discover for probably a lifetime!

The pristine natural environment around the Charters Towers region will have lovers of nature trekking rugged and unexplored wilderness areas. From spectacular white sandstone bluffs and gorges with brilliant wildflowers, to extensive basalt formations along the Great Basalt Wall, a result of the last major volcanic activity in northern Australia, you will be discovering to your heart’s content.

There are endless options to satisfy those who enjoy simple and easy-to-traverse walking paths, to those who thrive in the rugged, stunning environments – some of which is still to be explored!

The region is rich in flora and fauna throughout the natural landscape that forms part of the Desert Uplands and Dry Tropics to the start of the more lush wet tropics in the northern regions. The prolific birdlife will have bird watchers in their element while those who love the experience inland fishing offers will be able to venture into fabulous inland spots where you’ll truly be at one with nature – and a healthy inland Barra or three!

The mighty Burdekin River, which runs through our vast and wonderful region, provides an abundant and reliable water supply to many of our regional communities whilst supporting grazing and mining sectors. Apart from the Murray River, it is economically the most important river in Australia, and is the fourth-largest river by volume of flow.

Like all North Queensland water ways, these areas can be natural environments for crocodiles so be vigilant, be alert. Please be aware of the signs and also where there are no signs erected, this is nature and this is their environment. Although sightings are few and far between, caution is recommended and safety must be taken seriously. YOU SWIM AT YOUR OWN RISK.

For ideas of what to do in our national parks, visit Queensland National Parks. Visitors are encouraged to check “Park Alerts” for the latest information on any facility changes or access restrictions.